Sad will be the day for every man when he becomes absolutely contented with the life that he is living, with the thoughts that he is thinking, with the deeds that he is doing, when there is not forever beating at the doors of his soul some great desire to do something larger, which he knows that he was meant and made to do because he is the child of God. - Phillips Brooks, Class of 1855, Harvard Overseer and Preacher
Greetings from Cambridge.
Last week in our Vocational Preparation Bible course, a few of our seniors got into a rather spirited conversation regarding the breadth and depth of our responsibilities as believers who have been given much. From my seat at the table, it was a glorious moment where these rough-hewn young men were sharpening one another as iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Where does Christian formation lead us? The needs are overwhelming and with each shift of tectonic plates, the collective groan emanating from the earth only increases. Our prayers and efforts may seem infinitesimal to us, but it is anything but that to those on the receiving end of our good works and to the King of Kings (Matthew 25:40-45).
Winds of Change?
The theme of our Winter Retreat earlier this month was Spiritual Gifts. Fifty-five students joined us with representation from Brown and Dartmouth at the Glastonbury Abbey in Hingham. I love this topic because in it we tap into the enormous potential of the body of Christ. We had a wonderful time. Students are praying for peers who will assume Exec leadership roles after spring break.
The Manifest Presence of God at Asbury University
We were enormously encouraged by what happened at Asbury. If you have not heard about this, a simple Google search will do! Not coincidentally, Asbury recently hosted the Collegiate Day of Prayer on Thursday, February 23, and many Harvard students participated. Craig Keener, a professor at Asbury Seminary, is a friend of our ministry and a first-hand witness. He recently reflected on his experience:
“The university chapel (seating 1500) and seminary chapels (seating 1000) and a local church are filled and lines are waiting outside. But what strikes me most is that, even walking near the chapel or out on the street (itself full of cars), I can feel the tangible presence of God. Not something that can be manufactured. We’d prayed for this to happen someday, but it’s still way beyond my expectation.”Keener is also the author of a wonderful book, Miracles Today. Listen to a related interview here.
Lord, have mercy on us. We are hopeful, praying, and expectant. Thank you for your partnership in the gospel.
Don Weiss
Ministry Director
Christian Union Gloria
Please note: if you would like to receive regular updates on how to pray for Christian Union's work at Harvard, please email prayer@christianunion.org.
